Minister of Youth and Sports: State Backs Victims of Alleged Sexual Violence, Supports FPTI in Legal Proceedings
The Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora RI), Erick Thohir, has emphasised the government’s backing for several rock climbing athletes who have become victims of alleged sexual abuse and physical violence. The alleged perpetrator is a former head coach who has been dismissed by the Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation (FPTI).
The Minister also supported FPTI’s efforts to accompany and facilitate five victims to report the case to the Indonesian National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) so that it can be pursued thoroughly. He said that every athlete deserves a safe, dignified sporting environment free from all forms of violence.
Therefore, the government will not tolerate sexual violence in sport. “The state is present to protect athletes. We stand with the victims and fully support the steps of the Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation in accompanying the victims to report the case to the police so that it is processed legally. This ensures the victims obtain justice, and the perpetrators, if found guilty, must receive the maximum punishment,” said Minister Erick.
He added that handling this case should be an important moment to strengthen the athlete protection system across all sports. He stressed that the safety and welfare of athletes are the top priority in building the national sports ecosystem.
“We must not close our eyes to this issue. There is no place for violence, especially sexual violence, in sport, which should be a safe space for athletes to train, develop, and excel for the nation. We in the Ministry of Youth and Sports urge all sports federations, coaches, administrators, and the sports community to work together to build a culture that upholds integrity, respect for human dignity, and protection of athletes, so that an ecosystem free from violence is created,” added Minister Erick.
Earlier, FPTI Chairman Yenny Wahid said the federation would report the case to the police during a press conference to announce the national training camp team for rock climbing heading to the 2026 Asian Games on Wednesday (4 March 2026).
Yenny Wahid also expressed appreciation for the courage shown by the five athletes in revealing the physical and sexual violence they endured. She noted that the victims’ decision to speak out and bring this matter to legal channels demonstrates a commitment to uncovering the truth.
“If FPTI as an organisation cannot report, we will help find lawyers for the victims who want to report to the police,” said Yenny Wahid.
Yenny Wahid also stressed that the federation would do its utmost to safeguard the rights and privacy of the athletes who are victims in the case. In addition, FPTI is committed to fully supporting the legal process being pursued by the victims’ team of lawyers.